The Hamilton Bulldogs (13-20-1-3) take on the Abbotsford Heat (18-12-3-4) in the second game of their doubleheader on the road. The Bulldogs dropped last nights contest 3-1, which you can read about in our game recap.
This will be the fifth time the two teams meet this year, both teams winning 2 games. Both teams have been cleaned out by their NHL clubs due to the lockout, so it will be interesting to see who steps up in their place. Of the remaining players on the Heat, Ben Walters (7 goals, 17 assists) and Kris Kolanos (9 goals, 9 assists) lead the team in points.
On the Bulldogs’ side, Nathan Beaulieu (2 goals, 11 assists) and Jason DeSantis (3 goals, 8 assists) lead the team in points, and both are defencemen. That should speak volumes about the ‘Dogs’ offence this season.
In goal, Cedrick Desjardins will get the start once again. He has lost 9 straight so hopefully he can end that streak tonight. For the Heat, I expect Danny Taylor to get the start once again, since Barry Brust got into a fight with a teammate at the morning skate yesterday.
The key for the Bulldogs tonight will definitely to generate more shots. Last night they only managed 15 shots, which is not nearly enough to beat a strong goalie like Danny Taylor. Another key to the game will be discipline. The Bulldogs take way too many penalties, most of the time resulting in a goal against. If they can keep it clean they might be able to earn the split.
The puck drops at 10PM et, and as always, you can watch it live on AHLLive ($), or listen to it here.
